Cote proposals would help veterans, their families

State Rep. Nate Cote, D-Las Cruces, has introduced four bills aimed at providing support to military families and veterans.

The most far-reaching bill, House Bill 207, would exempt active-duty military members from paying state income taxes.

That’s a proposal Gov. Bill Richardson called for lawmakers to approve in last week’s State of the State address.

“One group is making enormous sacrifices on behalf of our state, our country, and our freedom – brave New Mexicans serving in the U.S. military,” Richardson said in his speech. “We have done more than most states to show our gratitude. Let’s go a step further. Let’s eliminate the state’s income tax for active duty members of the military, period.”

Cote, a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a retired civilian employee of the Air Force, said the proposal is an important incentive for the nation’s volunteer military.

“I am honored to carry this bill, which is endorsed by Governor Richardson,” Cote said in a news release. “I anticipate strong support form both Democrats and Republicans.”

Cote has also introduced House Bill 209, which would make more children of military families eligible to receive the lottery scholarship. Currently, students who graduate from New Mexico high schools while their families are stationed in the state aren’t eligible for the lottery scholarship if their families maintain a legal and permanent address in another state.

Cote wants to change that.

“The lottery scholarship bill provides important support to graduating seniors and offers the opportunity for these young adults to remain close to their families while attending New Mexico’s fine colleges and universities,” Cote said.

There’s also House Bill 210, which would provide current and retired members of the armed forces and their families free access to state parks, museums, recreation areas and campgrounds. And there’s House Bill 211, which would provide $500,000 in fiscal year 2008 to establish a pilot project for veterans who need treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.